Endovascular stent-graft with fatigue-resistant lateral tube

ABSTRACT

A stent-graft (20) comprises strut members (30) and a graft member (32), which is fixed to the strut members (30). The strut members (30) and the graft member (32) are arranged so as to define, when the stent-graft (20) is in a radially-expanded state: a main tube (40), which is shaped so as to define a main lumen (42); and a lateral tube (50), which (a) has (i) a distal end (52) and (ii) a proximal end (54) that is joined to a lateral wall (56) of the main tube (40) at a junction (60), (b) is shaped so as to define a lateral lumen (62) that is in fluid communication with the main lumen (42), and (c) defines a central longitudinal axis (64). The strut members (30) that define the lateral tube (50) are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous arcuate members (70), which (a) are centered around the central longitudinal axis (64), and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the central longitudinal axis (64).

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application 62/093,497, filed Dec. 18, 2014, which is assigned to the assignee of the present application and is incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE APPLICATION

The present invention relates generally to implantable medical devices, and specifically to delivery tools and implantable stent-grafts.

BACKGROUND OF THE APPLICATION

Endovascular prostheses are sometimes used to treat aortic aneurysms. Such treatment includes implanting a stent or stent-graft within the diseased vessel to bypass the anomaly. An aneurysm is a sac formed by the dilation of the wall of the artery. Aneurysms may be congenital, but are usually caused by disease or, occasionally, by trauma. Aortic aneurysms which commonly form between the renal arteries and the iliac arteries are referred to as abdominal aortic aneurysms (“AAAs”). Other aneurysms occur in the aorta, such as thoracic aortic aneurysms (“TAAs”) and aortic uni-iliac (“AUI”) aneurysms. A TAA may occur downstream the aortic arch, i.e., in the descending aorta. Alternatively, a TAA may occur in the aortic arch itself, where the aorta branches to supply the brachiocephalic, left carotid and subclavian arteries, or may occur in the ascending aorta.

Endo-Vascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) has transformed the practice of treatment of aortic aneurysms from an open surgical approach to a much less invasive surgical approach. The first step of an endovascular intervention usually requires introducing a delivery system into the vasculature of a subject. If the crossing profile, i.e., the external diameter, of the delivery system is 24 Fr or lower (3 Fr=1 millimeter), a true percutaneous approach may be used, because vascular closure devices are available for proper closure of such puncture sites.

Blood vessels occasionally weaken or even rupture. For example, in the aortic artery, the vascular wall can weaken or tear, resulting in dangerous conditions such as aneurysm and dissection. Treatment of such conditions can be performed by implanting a prosthesis within the vascular system using minimally-invasive surgical procedures. An endoluminal prosthesis typically includes one or more stents affixed to graft material and is delivered to the treatment site by endovascular insertion. Once the endoluminal prosthesis is radially enlarged, it should remain in place indefinitely by self-attachment to the vessel wall, acting as a substitute vessel for the flow of blood or other fluids.

Aortic dissection is a tear or partial tear in the inner wall of the aorta, which causes blood to flow between the layers of the wall of the aorta, forcing the layers apart. Aortic dissections may be divided into two types in accordance with the Stanford classification: Type A dissections involve the ascending aorta and/or aortic arch, and possibly the descending aorta. Type B dissections involve the descending aorta or the arch (distal to right brachiocephalic artery origin), without involvement of the ascending aorta.

SUMMARY OF THE APPLICATION

In some embodiments of the present invention, a stent-graft comprises a plurality of structural strut members and a graft member, which are arranged so as to define a main tube and a lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in a radially-expanded state. The lateral tube has a proximal end that is joined to a lateral wall of the main tube. When the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the structural strut members that the define lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to six, typically two to four, non-contiguous arcuate members, which (a) are centered around a central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the central longitudinal axis. Typically, the arcuate members are arranged so as to provide respective circumferential gaps between circumferentially-adjacent ones of the arcuate members, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. This configuration of the structural stent members of the lateral tube tends to increase the fatigue resistance of the lateral tube during long-term implantation of the stent-graft in an aneurysmal artery.

For some applications, the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define respective linking members for the arcuate members. The linking members link the arcuate members to the a junction at which the proximal end of the lateral tube is joined to the main tube, such as with one or more structural strut members that surround the proximal end of the lateral tube. For some of these applications, the linking members form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. In some configurations, the average angle is 85 to 90 degrees, e.g., 90 degrees, while for other applications, the average angle is 30 to 60 degrees, e.g., about 45 degrees.

For some applications, the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Typically, the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. For example, the arcuate members may be disposed at the distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Typically, the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of a portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. For example, the arcuate members may be disposed at the distal end of the portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.

There is therefore provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 1 of the present invention, apparatus comprising an endovascular stent-graft, which is configured to transition from a radially-compressed delivery state to a radially-expanded state, and which comprises:

a plurality of structural strut members; and

a graft member, which comprises one or more substantially blood-impervious flexible sheets, and which is fixed to the structural strut members,

wherein the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged so as to define, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state:

-   -   a main tube, which is shaped so as to define a main lumen, and     -   a lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a distal end and (ii) a         proximal end that is joined to a lateral wall of the main tube         at a junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a lateral lumen         that is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c)         defines a central longitudinal axis, and

wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the central longitudinal axis.

Inventive concept 2. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend at least 180 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 3. The apparatus according to inventive concept 2, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend at least 210 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 4. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein at least one of the arcuate members alone subtends at least 60 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 5. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 6. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein at least two of the arcuate members are disposed at respective different axial positions along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 7. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 8. The apparatus according to inventive concept 7, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at the distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 9. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of a portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 10. The apparatus according to inventive concept 9, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at the distal end of the portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 11. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein when the main tube is in a radially-expanded state thereof and the lateral tube is in a compressed delivery state thereof, the arcuate members define a portion of a generally tubular outer surface of the main tube. Inventive concept 12. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises a branching stent-graft, which is configured to form a blood-tight seal with the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state and the branching stent-graft is in a radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 13. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein a ratio of (a) an average circumference of the main tube and (b) an average circumference of the lateral tube is between 1:1 and 5:1, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 14. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein a length of the lateral tube is between 10% and 30% of an average circumference of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 15. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein a circumference of the lateral tube at the proximal end of the lateral tube is between 5% and 30% greater than a circumference of the lateral tube at the distal end of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 16. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is greater than 80 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 17. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 60 and 80 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 18. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 30 and 60 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 19. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the main tube has proximal and distal ends, and wherein a circumference of the proximal end of the main tube is 3 to 10 cm, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 20. The apparatus according to inventive concept 19, wherein a circumference of the distal end of the main tube is 6 to 12 cm, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 21. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein a length of the main tube is 4 to 15 cm. Inventive concept 22. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the one or more of the structural strut members comprise a flexible metal. Inventive concept 23. The apparatus according to inventive concept 22, wherein the metal comprises a superelastic alloy. Inventive concept 24. The apparatus according to inventive concept 23, wherein the alloy comprises Nitinol. Inventive concept 25. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the one or more flexible sheets comprise polyethylene terephthalate. Inventive concept 26. The apparatus according to inventive concept 1, wherein the one or more flexible sheets comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE). Inventive concept 27. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 1-26, wherein the arcuate members are arranged so as to provide respective circumferential gaps between circumferentially-adjacent ones of the arcuate members, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 28. The apparatus according to inventive concept 27, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 350 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 29. The apparatus according to inventive concept 28, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 340 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 30. The apparatus according to inventive concept 27, wherein each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 10 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 31. The apparatus according to inventive concept 30, wherein each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 20 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 32. The apparatus according to inventive concept 27, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 33. The apparatus according to inventive concept 32, wherein respective areas of the lateral tube, which (a) circumferentially correspond with the gaps and (b) extend from the axial position of the arcuate members along at least 50% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction, are free from the structural strut members, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 34. The apparatus according to inventive concept 33, wherein the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 60% of the distance. Inventive concept 35. The apparatus according to inventive concept 34, wherein the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 100% of the distance. Inventive concept 36. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 1-26, wherein the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define respective linking members for the arcuate members, which linking members link the arcuate members to the junction. Inventive concept 37. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members and the linking members, in an area that (a) extends entirely around the central longitudinal axis and (b) extends from the distal end of the lateral tube along at least 50% of a distance between the distal end of the lateral tube and the junction. Inventive concept 38. The apparatus according to inventive concept 37, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members, the linking members, and any of the structural strut members that surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction. Inventive concept 39. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 40. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, respective points on the linking members and respective juncture points between the link members and the arcuate members define respective lines, which lines form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, and which points on the linking members are at 30% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction. Inventive concept 41. The apparatus according to inventive concept 40, wherein an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 42. The apparatus according to inventive concept 40, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees. Inventive concept 43. The apparatus according to inventive concept 42, wherein the average is 90 degrees. Inventive concept 44. The apparatus according to inventive concept 40, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees. Inventive concept 45. The apparatus according to inventive concept 40, wherein the linking members form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 46. The apparatus according to inventive concept 45, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees. Inventive concept 47. The apparatus according to inventive concept 46, wherein the average is 90 degrees. Inventive concept 48. The apparatus according to inventive concept 45, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees. Inventive concept 49. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein each of the linking members is connected to its respective arcuate member at a juncture point at a location along the arcuate member that is within a number of degrees of a circumferential center of the arcuate member around the central circumferential axis, which number of degrees is equal to 40% of a total number of degrees of the arcuate member. Inventive concept 50. The apparatus according to inventive concept 49, wherein the location along the arcuate member is at the circumferential center of the arcuate member. Inventive concept 51. The apparatus according to inventive concept 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, one or more of the structural strut members (a) completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction and (b) are connected to the linking members. Inventive concept 52. The apparatus according to any one of inventive concepts 1-26, wherein one or more of the structural strut members completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 53. The apparatus according to inventive concept 52,

wherein the structural strut members that define the main tube are shaped so as a plurality of circumferential stent springs, each of which is shaped so as to define a plurality of stent cells, and

wherein one of the stent cells of one of the circumferential stent springs is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.

Inventive concept 54. The apparatus according to inventive concept 53, wherein the stent cells of the one of the circumferential stent springs are diamond-shaped, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 55. The apparatus according to inventive concept 54, wherein the diamond-shaped stent cells have respective, different dimensions, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state. Inventive concept 56. The apparatus according to inventive concept 55, wherein a largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is at least 100% greater in surface area than a smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells, which largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is the one of the stent cells that is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.

Inventive concept 57. The apparatus according to inventive concept 56,

Inventive concept wherein the lateral tube is a first lateral tube, the distal and proximal ends are first distal and proximal ends, the junction is a first junction, the lateral lumen is a first lateral lumen, the central longitudinal axis is a first central longitudinal axis, and the arcuate members are first arcuate members,

wherein the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged so as to define, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, a second lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a second distal end and (ii) a second proximal end that is joined to the lateral wall of the main tube at a second junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a second lateral lumen that is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c) defines a second central longitudinal axis,

wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the structural strut members that define the second lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous second arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the second central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the second central longitudinal axis, and

wherein the smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells completely surrounds the second proximal end of the second lateral tube at the second junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.

There is further provided, in accordance with an inventive concept 58 of the present invention, a method for treating a subject, comprising:

transvascularly introducing an endovascular stent-graft into a blood vessel of the subject while the stent-graft is in a radially-compressed delivery state, which stent-graft comprises (a) a plurality of structural strut members, and (b) a graft member, which comprises one or more substantially blood-impervious flexible sheets, and which is fixed to the structural strut members; and

transitioning the stent-graft to a radially-expanded state, in which:

-   -   the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged         so as to define (x) a main tube, which is shaped so as to define         a main lumen, and (y) a lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a distal         end and (ii) a proximal end that is joined to a lateral wall of         the main tube at a junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a         lateral lumen that is in fluid communication with the main         lumen, and (c) defines a central longitudinal axis, and     -   the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are         shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous arcuate         members, which (a) are centered around the central longitudinal         axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around         the central longitudinal axis.         Inventive concept 59. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members collectively subtend at least 180 degrees around the         central longitudinal axis.         Inventive concept 60. The method according to inventive concept         59, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members collectively subtend at least 210 degrees around the         central longitudinal axis.         Inventive concept 61. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which at least one         of the arcuate members alone subtends at least 60 degrees around         the central longitudinal axis.         Inventive concept 62. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral         tube.         Inventive concept 63. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which at least two         of the arcuate members are disposed at respective different         axial positions along the lateral tube.         Inventive concept 64. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of the structural         strut members that define the lateral tube.         Inventive concept 65. The method according to inventive concept         64, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members are disposed at the distal end of the structural strut         members that define the lateral tube.         Inventive concept 66. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of a portion of         the graft member that defines the lateral tube.         Inventive concept 67. The method according to inventive concept         66, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the         stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate         members are disposed at the distal end of the portion of the         graft member that defines the lateral tube.         Inventive concept 68. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transitioning comprises:

transitioning the main tube to a radially-expanded state thereof while the lateral tube remains in a compressed delivery state thereof, in which the arcuate members define a portion of a generally tubular outer surface of the main tube; and

thereafter, transitioning the lateral tube to a radially-expanded state thereof, such that the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state thereof.

Inventive concept 69. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a ratio of (a) an average circumference of the main tube and (b) an average circumference of the lateral tube is between 1:1 and 5:1. Inventive concept 70. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a length of the lateral tube is between 10% and 30% of an average circumference of the lateral tube. Inventive concept 71. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a circumference of the lateral tube at the proximal end of the lateral tube is between 5% and 30% greater than a circumference of the lateral tube at the distal end of the lateral tube. Inventive concept 72. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is greater than 80 degrees. Inventive concept 73. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 60 and 80 degrees. Inventive concept 74. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 30 and 60 degrees. Inventive concept 75. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein the main tube has proximal and distal ends, and wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a circumference of the proximal end of the main tube is 3 to 10 cm. Inventive concept 76. The method according to inventive concept 75, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a circumference of the distal end of the main tube is 6 to 12 cm. Inventive concept 77. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transvascularly introducing the stent-graft comprises transvascularly introducing the stent-graft while the stent-graft is restrained in the radially-compressed delivery state within an elongate delivery tube, and wherein transitioning the stent-graft to a radially-expanded state comprises releasing the stent-graft from the elongate delivery tube. Inventive concept 78. The method according to inventive concept 77, wherein a ratio of (a) an average circumference of the main tube when in a radially-expanded state thereof to (b) an inner circumference of the delivery tube is at least 5. Inventive concept 79. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate members are arranged so as to provide respective circumferential gaps between circumferentially-adjacent ones of the arcuate members. Inventive concept 80. The method according to inventive concept 79, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 350 degrees around the central longitudinal axis. Inventive concept 81. The method according to inventive concept 80, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 340 degrees around the central longitudinal axis. Inventive concept 82. The method according to inventive concept 79, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 10 degrees. Inventive concept 83. The method according to inventive concept 82, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 20 degrees. Inventive concept 84. The method according to inventive concept 79, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube. Inventive concept 85. The method according to inventive concept 84, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which respective areas of the lateral tube, which (a) circumferentially correspond with the gaps and (b) extend from the axial position of the arcuate members along at least 50% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction, are free from the structural strut members. Inventive concept 86. The method according to inventive concept 85, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 60% of the distance. Inventive concept 87. The method according to inventive concept 86, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 100% of the distance. Inventive concept 88. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define respective linking members for the arcuate members, which linking members link the arcuate members to the junction. Inventive concept 89. The method according to inventive concept 88, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members and the linking members, in an area that (a) extends entirely around the central longitudinal axis and (b) extends from the distal end of the lateral tube along at least 50% of a distance between the distal end of the lateral tube and the junction. Inventive concept 90. The method according to inventive concept 89, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members, the linking members, and any of the structural strut members that surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction. Inventive concept 91. The method according to inventive concept 88, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube. Inventive concept 92. The method according to inventive concept 88, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which respective points on the linking members and respective juncture points between the link members and the arcuate members define respective lines, which lines form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, and which points on the linking members are at 30% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction. Inventive concept 93. The method according to inventive concept 92, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube. Inventive concept 94. The method according to inventive concept 92, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees. Inventive concept 95. The method according to inventive concept 94, wherein the average is 90 degrees. Inventive concept 96. The method according to inventive concept 92, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees. Inventive concept 97. The method according to inventive concept 92, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the linking members form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees. Inventive concept 98. The method according to inventive concept 97, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees. Inventive concept 99. The method according to inventive concept 98, wherein the average is 90 degrees. Inventive concept 100. The method according to inventive concept 97, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees. Inventive concept 101. The method according to inventive concept 88, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which each of the linking members is connected to its respective arcuate member at a juncture point at a location along the arcuate member that is within a number of degrees of a circumferential center of the arcuate member around the central circumferential axis, which number of degrees is equal to 40% of a total number of degrees of the arcuate member. Inventive concept 102. The method according to inventive concept 101, wherein the location along the arcuate member is at the circumferential center of the arcuate member. Inventive concept 103. The method according to inventive concept 88, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which one or more of the structural strut members (a) completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction and (b) are connected to the linking members. Inventive concept 104. The method according to inventive concept 58, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which one or more of the structural strut members completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction. Inventive concept 105. The method according to inventive concept 104, wherein the structural strut members that define the main tube are shaped so as a plurality of circumferential stent springs, each of which is shaped so as to define a plurality of stent cells, and wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which one of the stent cells of one of the circumferential stent springs is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction. Inventive concept 106. The method according to inventive concept 105, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the stent cells of the one of the circumferential stent springs are diamond-shaped. Inventive concept 107. The method according to inventive concept 106, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which the diamond-shaped stent cells have respective, different dimensions. Inventive concept 108. The method according to inventive concept 107, wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state in which a largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is at least 100% greater in surface area than a smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells, which largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is the one of the stent cells that is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction. 109. The method according to inventive concept 108,

wherein the lateral tube is a first lateral tube, the distal and proximal ends are first distal and proximal ends, the junction is a first junction, the lateral lumen is a first lateral lumen, the central longitudinal axis is a first central longitudinal axis, and the arcuate members are first arcuate members,

wherein transitioning comprises transitioning the stent-graft to the radially-expanded state, in which:

-   -   the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged         so as to define a second lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a         second distal end and (ii) a second proximal end that is joined         to the lateral wall of the main tube at a second junction, (b)         is shaped so as to define a second lateral lumen that is in         fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c) defines a         second central longitudinal axis, and     -   the structural strut members that define the second lateral tube         are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous second         arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the second         central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least         150 degrees around the second central longitudinal axis, and     -   wherein the smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells         completely surrounds the second proximal end of the second         lateral tube at the second junction, when the stent-graft is in         the radially-expanded state.         Inventive concept 110. The method according to inventive concept         58, wherein transvascularly introducing the stent-graft into the         blood vessel comprises transvascularly introducing the         stent-graft into an aorta of the subject.         Inventive concept 111. The method according to inventive concept         110, wherein transvascularly introducing the stent-graft into         the aorta comprises transvascularly introducing the stent-graft         into an aneurysmal aorta.         Inventive concept 112. The method according to inventive concept         58, further comprising:

transvascularly introducing a branching stent-graft through a portion of the main tube and into a branching blood vessel while the branching stent-graft is in a radially-compressed delivery state thereof; and

transitioning the branching stent-graft to a radially-expanded state thereof, in which the branching stent-graft forms a blood-tight seal with the lateral tube.

Inventive concept 113. The method according to inventive concept 112,

wherein transvascularly introducing the stent-graft into the blood vessel comprises transvascularly introducing the stent-graft into an aneurysmal aorta of the subject, and

wherein transvascularly introducing the branching stent-graft into the branching blood vessel comprises transvascularly introducing the branching stent-graft into a visceral artery of the subject.

Inventive concept 114. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein the visceral artery is a renal artery. Inventive concept 115. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein the visceral artery is a superior mesenteric artery (SMA). Inventive concept 116. The method according to inventive concept 113, wherein the visceral artery is a celiac artery.

The present invention will be more fully understood from the following detailed description of embodiments thereof, taken together with the drawings, in which:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIGS. 1A-B are schematic illustrations of a portion of an endovascular stent-graft, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a schematic illustration of another configuration of the stent-graft of FIGS. 1A-B, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIG. 2B, which is a schematic illustration of yet another configuration of stent-graft 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 3A-B are schematic illustrations of a portion of another endovascular stent-graft, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 4A-B are schematic illustrations of a portion of yet another endovascular stent-graft, in accordance with an application of the present invention;

FIGS. 5A and 5B, which are schematic illustrations of portions of the stent-grafts of FIGS. 1A-B and 4A-B, respectively, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention; and

FIG. 6A-B are schematic illustrations of exemplary deployments of the stent-graft of FIGS. 3A-B, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF APPLICATIONS

FIGS. 1A and 1B are schematic illustrations of a portion of an endovascular stent-graft 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Stent-graft 20 is configured to transition from a radially-compressed delivery state (not shown) to a radially-expanded state (as shown in FIG. 1A). Stent-graft 20 comprises a plurality of structural strut members 30 and a graft member 32, which is fixed to structural strut members 30.

Structural strut members 30 and graft member 32 are arranged so as to define, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state:

-   -   a main tube 40, which is shaped so as to define a main lumen 42,         and     -   a lateral tube 50, which (a) has (i) a distal end 52 and (ii) a         proximal end 54 that is joined to a lateral wall 56 of main tube         40 at a junction 60 (junction 60 is flush with the external         surface of main tube 40), (b) is shaped so as to define a         lateral lumen 62 that is in fluid communication with main lumen         42, and (c) defines a central longitudinal axis 64.

When stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, as shown in FIG. 1A, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define two to six, typically two to four, non-contiguous arcuate members 70, which (a) are centered around central longitudinal axis 64, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around central longitudinal axis 64, such as at least 180 degrees, e.g., at least 210 degrees around central longitudinal axis 64, such as at least 300 degrees, e.g., at least 340 degrees. (It is to be understood that not all of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 necessarily are shaped so as to define arcuate members 70; typically, only a portion of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define arcuate members 70.) For example, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define exactly two non-contiguous arcuate members 70, each of which subtends an angle α (alpha) around central longitudinal axis 64, such that they collectively subtend an angle equal to 2α (twice alpha). For some applications, at least one of arcuate members 70 alone subtends at least 60 degrees around central longitudinal axis 64 when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For example, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, angle α (alpha) is greater than 60 degrees, such that each of the arcuate members, taken separately, subtends at least 60 degrees around central longitudinal axis 64.

For some applications, stent-graft 20 is self-expanding, in which case the radially-expanded state is a relaxed state of the stent-graft. For these applications, lateral tube 50 is typically self-protruding from main tube 40. As used in the present application, including in the claims, a “central longitudinal axis” of an elongate structure is the set of all centroids of transverse cross-sectional sections of the structure along the structure. Thus the cross-sectional sections are locally perpendicular to the central longitudinal axis, which runs along the structure. (If the structure is circular in cross-section, the centroids correspond with the centers of the circular cross-sectional sections.)

Typically, structural strut members 30 comprise a metal, such as a flexible metal, an elastic metal, stainless steel, or a superelastic alloy (such as Nitinol). Graft member 32 comprises one or more biologically-compatible substantially blood-impervious flexible sheets 34, and is attached (such as by stitching) to at least a portion of structural strut members 30, on either side of the surfaces defined by the support element, so as to define lumens 42 and 62. The flexible sheets may comprise, for example, a polymeric material (e.g., a polyester, or polytetrafluoroethylene), a textile material (e.g., polyethylene terephthalate (PET), or expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (ePTFE)), natural tissue (e.g., saphenous vein or collagen), or a combination thereof.

Typically, arcuate members 70 are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For example, arcuate members 70 may be disposed at the distal end of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, such as shown in FIG. 1A. Typically, arcuate members 70 are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of a portion of graft member 32 that defines lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For example, arcuate members 70 may be disposed at the distal end of the portion of graft member 32 that defines lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, such as shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 1B shows stent-graft 20 when main tube 40 is in a radially-expanded state thereof and lateral tube 50 is in a compressed delivery state thereof. For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 1B, when main tube 40 is in a radially-expanded state thereof and lateral tube 50 is in a compressed delivery state thereof, arcuate members 70 define a portion of a generally tubular outer surface of main tube 40.

Typically, arcuate members 70 are arranged so as to provide respective circumferential gaps 80 between circumferentially-adjacent ones of arcuate members 70, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For example, in the configuration shown in FIG. 1A, arcuate members 70 are arranged so as to provide exactly two circumferential gaps 80. For some applications, arcuate members 70 collectively subtend no more than 350 degrees around central longitudinal axis 64, such as no more than 340 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For example, as shown in FIG. 1A, in the configuration shown in FIGS. 1A and 1B, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define exactly two non-contiguous arcuate members 70, each of which subtends an angle α (alpha) around central longitudinal axis 64, such that they collectively subtend an angle equal to 2α (twice alpha), which is no more than 350 degrees. For some applications, each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 10 degrees, such as at least 20 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 1A (and in FIGS. 2A, 3A, 4A, and 5A-B, described hereinbelow), arcuate members 70 are disposed at a same axial position along lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some of these applications, such as shown in FIG. 1A, respective areas 82 of lateral tube 50, which (a) circumferentially correspond with the gaps and (b) extend from the axial position of arcuate members 70 along at least 50%, such as at least 60%, e.g., 100% (as shown in FIG. 1A), of a distance D between the axial position of arcuate members 70 and junction 60, are free from structural strut members 30, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

For some applications, one or more of structural strut members 30 (these one or more structural strut members are labeled 86 in the figures) surround proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 at junction 60. For some applications, one or more of structural strut members 30 (these one or more structural strut members are labeled 86 in the figures) surround proximal end 54, such as completely (i.e., around 360 degrees) surround proximal end 54, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

For some applications, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define respective linking members 84 for arcuate members 70. Linking members 84 link arcuate members 70 to junction 60, such as with the one or more structural strut members 86 that surround proximal end 54, for applications in which these surrounding strut members are provided. (It is to be understood that not all of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 necessarily are shaped so as to define linking members 84; typically, only a portion of structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define linking members 84.) For some applications, linking members 84 form respective angles β (beta) with the respective arcuate members 70, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, such as 85 to 90 degrees, e.g., 90 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, an average length of linking members 84 equals at least 80% of a length of lateral tube 50.

For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 1A (and in FIGS. 2A-B, 3A, 4A, and 5A-B, described hereinbelow), when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, lateral tube 50 is free from structural strut members 30, except for arcuate members 70 and linking members 84, in an area that (a) extends entirely around central longitudinal axis 64 and (b) extends from distal end 52 of lateral tube 50 along at least 50% of a distance between distal end 52 of lateral tube 50 and junction 60. For some of these applications, such as also shown in FIG. 1A (and in FIGS. 2A-B, 3A, 4A, and 5A-B, described hereinbelow), when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, lateral tube 50 is free from structural strut members 30, except for arcuate members 70, linking members 84, and any of structural strut members 30 that surround proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 at junction 60.

For some applications, structural strut members 30 that define main tube 40 are arranged as a plurality of circumferential stent springs 88, each of which is shaped so as to define a plurality of stent cells 90. (It is to be understood that not all of structural strut members 30 that define main tube 40 necessarily are shaped so as to define stent springs 88; for some applications, only a portion of structural strut members 30 that define main tube 40 are shaped so as to define stent springs 88.) Typically, axially-adjacent ones of the stent springs are not in contact with one another, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, stent cells 90 are diamond-shaped, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, the diamond-shaped stent cells 90 have respective, different dimensions, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

Typically, one of stent cells 90 of one of stent springs 88 is defined by the one or more of structural strut members 30 that completely surround proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 at junction 60, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

For some applications, a ratio of (a) an average circumference of main tube 40 and (b) an average circumference of lateral tube 50 is between 1:1 and 5:1, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, a length of lateral tube 50 is between 10% and 30% of an average circumference of lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, a circumference of lateral tube 50 at proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 is between 5% and 30% greater than a circumference of lateral tube 50 at distal end 52 of lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, a length of main tube 40 is 4 to 15 cm.

For some applications, an angle between central longitudinal axis 64 of lateral tube 50 and a central longitudinal axis of main tube 40 is greater than 80 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, an angle between central longitudinal axis 64 of lateral tube 50 and a longitudinal axis of main tube 40 is between 60 and 80 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, an angle between central longitudinal axis 64 of lateral tube 50 and a longitudinal axis of main tube 40 is between 30 and 60 degrees, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

For some applications, stent-graft 20 comprises two or more (e.g., exactly two or exactly three) lateral tubes 50, such as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 3A-B, mutatis mutandis.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2A, which is a schematic illustration of another configuration of stent-graft 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In this configuration, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define exactly four non-contiguous arcuate members 70, each of which subtends an angle α (alpha) around central longitudinal axis 64, such that they collectively subtend an angle equal to 4α (four times alpha). Arcuate members 70 are arranged so as to provide exactly four circumferential gaps 80.

Reference is now made to FIG. 2B, which is a schematic illustration of yet another configuration of stent-graft 20, in accordance with an application of the present invention. In this configuration, at least two of arcuate members 70 are disposed at respective different axial positions along lateral tube 50, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A and 3B, which are schematic illustrations of a portion of an endovascular stent-graft 120, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Other than as described below, stent-graft 120 is identical to stent-graft 20, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A-B and 2A-B, and may implement any of the features of stent-graft 20.

As mentioned above with reference to FIGS. 1A-B, for some applications, structural strut members 30 that define main tube 40 are arranged as a plurality of circumferential stent springs 88, each of which is shaped so as to define a plurality of stent cells 90. Typically, axially-adjacent ones of the stent springs are not in contact with one another, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. Typically, one of stent cells 90 of one of stent springs 88 is defined by the one or more of structural strut members 30 that completely surround proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 at junction 60, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, stent cells 90 are diamond-shaped, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, the diamond-shaped stent cells 90 have respective, different dimensions, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

In the configuration shown in FIGS. 3A-B, a largest one of stent cells 90 (labeled 90A) (e.g., the diamond-shaped stent cells) is at least 100% greater in surface area than a smallest one of stent cells 90 (labeled 90B) (e.g., the diamond-shaped stent cells), which largest one of stent cells 90A is the one of the stent cells 90 that is defined by the one or more of structural strut members 30 that completely surround proximal end 54 of lateral tube 50 at junction 60, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state.

As mentioned above regarding stent-graft 20, for some applications, stent-graft 120 comprises two or more (e.g., exactly two or exactly three) lateral tubes 50. For these applications, lateral tube 50 is a first lateral tube 50, distal and proximal ends 52 and 54 are first distal and proximal ends 54 and 54, junction 60 is a first junction 60, lateral lumen 62 is a first lateral lumen 62, central longitudinal axis 64 is a first central longitudinal axis 64, and arcuate members 70 are first arcuate members 70. Structural strut members 30 and graft member 32 are arranged so as to define, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, a second lateral tube 150, which (a) has (i) a second distal end 152 and (ii) a second proximal end 154 that is joined to lateral wall 56 of main tube 40 at a second junction 160, (b) is shaped so as to define a second lateral lumen 162 that is in fluid communication with main lumen 42, and (c) defines a second central longitudinal axis 164. When stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, structural strut members 30 that define second lateral tube 150 are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous second arcuate members 170, which (a) are centered around second central longitudinal axis 164, and (c) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around second central longitudinal axis 164.

For some applications, the smallest one of stent cells 90B (e.g., the diamond-shaped stent cells) completely surrounds second proximal end 154 of second lateral tube 150 at second junction 160, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, an average circumference of second lateral tube 150 is less than an average circumference of first lateral tube 50.

For other applications, such as shown in FIGS. 6A-B, structural strut members 30 and graft member 32 are arranged so as to define, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, second lateral tube 150, and the smallest one of stent cells 90B (e.g., the diamond-shaped stent cells) does not surround second proximal end 154 of second lateral tube 150 at second junction 160, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For these applications, an average circumference of second lateral tube 150 may be equal to an average circumference of first lateral tube 50.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A and 4B, which are schematic illustrations of a portion of an endovascular stent-graft 220, in accordance with an application of the present invention. Stent-graft 220 may implement any of the features of stent-graft 20, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A-B and 2A-B, and/or stent-graft 120, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 3A-B.

As mentioned above, for some applications, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define respective linking members 84 for arcuate members 70, which linking members 84 link arcuate members 70 to junction 60, such as with the one or more structural strut members 86 that surround proximal end 54, for applications in which these surrounding strut members are provided. For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 4A, linking members 84 form respective angles γ (gamma) with the respective arcuate members 70, which angles have an average of 30 to 60 degrees (e.g., about 45 degrees), when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state. For some applications, proximal portions of linking members 84 are generally asymptotic with junction 60, and with the one or more structural strut members 86 that surround proximal end 54, for applications in which these surrounding strut members are provided.

In this configuration, distal end 52 of lateral tube 50 rotates during the transition from the compressed delivery state to the radially-expanded state. As a result, in the crimped configuration shown in FIG. 4B (in which lateral tube is in the radially-compressed state thereof), linking members 84 do not overlap one another, which might cause an increased crossing profile of stent-graft 220.

For some applications, one or more (e.g., all) of arcuate members 70 are shaped so as to define respective jointed locations 292, which are configured such that the arcuate members fold at the jointed locations 292 when main tube 40 is radially compressed. Without such folding protrusions, the arcuate members might plastically deform at arbitrary locations therealong when the main tube is radially compressed. For some applications, each of the jointed locations 292 is at a location along its respective arcuate member 70 that is within a number of degrees of a circumferential center 294 of the arcuate member around central longitudinal axis 64, which number of degrees is equal to 40% of a total number of degrees of the arcuate member, such as at the circumferential center of the arcuate member. For some applications, arcuate members 70 of stent-graft 20 or 120, described hereinabove with reference to FIGS. 1A-3B, are shaped so as to define respective jointed locations 292.

For some applications, stent-graft 220 comprises two or more (e.g., exactly two or exactly three) lateral tubes 50, such as described hereinbelow with reference to FIGS. 3A-B, mutatis mutandis.

Reference is now made to FIGS. 5A and 5B, which are schematic illustrations of portions of stent-grafts 20 and 220, respectively, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention. As mentioned above, for some applications, structural strut members 30 that define lateral tube 50 are shaped so as to define respective linking members 84 for arcuate members 70, which linking members 84 link arcuate members 70 to junction 60.

For some applications, as shown in FIGS. 5A and 5B, when stent-graft 20 is in the radially-expanded state, respective points 300 on linking members 84 and respective juncture points 302 between linking members 84 and arcuate members 70 define respective lines 304 (it is to be understood that points 300 and 302 and lines 304 are not actual structural features of the stent-grafts, but are instead abstract geometric elements used to describe the physical properties of the device). Lines 304 form respective angles δ (delta) with the respective arcuate members 70. The angles δ (delta) have an average of 30 to 90 degrees. Points 300 on linking members 84 are at 30% of a distance D2 between the axial position of arcuate members 70 and junction 60. For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 5A, the average is 85 to 90 degrees, e.g., 90 degrees, while for other applications, such as shown in FIG. 5B, the average is 30 to 60 degrees, e.g., about 45 degrees.

For some applications, such as labeled in FIGS. 5A and also shown in FIGS. 1A, 2A, and 3A, juncture point 302 between each of the linking members 84 and its respective arcuate member is at a location along the arcuate member that is within a number of degrees of circumferential center 294 of the arcuate member around central longitudinal axis 64, which number of degrees is equal to 40% of a total number of degrees of the arcuate member, such as at the circumferential center of the arcuate member. For other applications, such as labeled in FIG. 5B and also shown in FIG. 4A,

Reference is now made to FIGS. 6A-B, which are schematic illustrations of exemplary deployments of stent-graft 120, in accordance with respective applications of the present invention. Stent-graft 120, and the other stent-grafts described herein, may also be used to treat a blood vessel suffering from a dissection, or, more generally, a pathologically dilated aorta. The techniques described with reference to FIGS. 6A-B may also be used to deploy stent-grafts 20 and 220.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 6A, stent-graft 120 is shown deployed in the vicinity of a sub-renal (e.g., juxtarenal) abdominal aortic aneurysm 400 of an abdominal aorta. In this deployment, an average circumference of second lateral tube 150 is equal to an average circumference of first lateral tube 50.

In the configuration shown in FIG. 6B, stent-graft 120 is shown deployed in an aortic arch 500 and a brachiocephalic artery 503. More particularly, main tube 40 is shown deployed mostly in aortic arch 500, with a narrower proximal end 510 of the main tube deployed in brachiocephalic artery 503. For some applications, a circumference of proximal end 510 of main tube 40 is 3 to 10 cm, when stent-graft 120 is in the radially-expanded state. Alternatively or additionally, for some applications, a circumference of a distal end of main tube 40 is 6 to 12 cm, when stent-graft 120 is in the radially-expanded state. Alternatively, narrower proximal end 510 of main tube 40 may be configured to be disposed in another branch of aortic arch 500, such as a left common carotid artery 512 or a left subclavian artery 514. Optionally, the techniques described herein are used in combination with the techniques described in US Patent Application Publication 2013/0013050, which is incorporated herein by reference. (It is noted that in the deployment shown in FIG. 6B, blood flow to left subclavian artery 514 is blocked by stent-graft 120. The left subclavian artery is either “sacrificed” (i.e. via occlusion), or surgically anastomosed to left common carotid artery 512, or possibly to another source artery, such as the right common carotid artery. Alternatively, stent-graft 120 may be shaped so as to define an additional lateral tube 50, and an additional branching stent-graft may be deployed into left subclavian artery 514.)

The deployment is typically performed in a transvascular (typically percutaneous) procedure using one or more guidewires and an elongate delivery tube that is sized to hold stent-graft 120 in the radially-compressed delivery state. For some applications, a ratio of (a) an average circumference of main tube 40 when in the radially-expanded state thereof to (b) an inner circumference of the delivery tube is at least 5. Typically, after stent-graft 120 is positioned at the desired anatomical site, the sheath is withdrawn proximally, exposing stent-graft 120 and allowing the stent-graft to self-expand, or be expanded by plastic deformation using a balloon, into the radially-expanded state. The deployment may be performed using deployment techniques known in the art and/or described in any of the patent applications publications and patents incorporated hereinbelow by reference.

For some applications, such as shown in FIG. 6A, first and second lateral tubes 50 and 150 are positioned in respective branching blood vessels, such as branching visceral arteries, e.g., renal arteries 402A and 402B. For other applications, such as shown in FIG. 6B, one of first and second lateral tubes 50 and 150 is positioned in the main blood vessel and the other in a branching blood vessel, e.g., first lateral tube 50 is positioned in aortic arch 500, facing upstream, and second lateral tube 150 is positioned in brachiocephalic artery 503.

For some applications, two or more branching stent-grafts, such as two branching stent-grafts 410A and 410B, are deployed through a portion main lumen 42 of main tube 40 and through first and second lateral lumens 62 and 162 of first and second lateral tubes 50 and 150, respectively, and into their respective arteries, so as to form respective blood-tight seals with first and second lateral tubes 50 and 150. For example, as shown in FIG. 6A, branching stent-grafts 410A and 410B are positioned in renal arteries 402A and 402B, respectively, or, as shown in FIG. 6B, branching stent-grafts 410A and 410B are positioned in an ascending aorta 516 and left common carotid artery 512, respectively. For example, the branching stent-grafts may be deployed using respective guidewires and cannulae, such as described in PCT Application PCT/IL2014/050973, filed Nov. 6, 2014, which published as WO 2015/075708, and which is incorporated herein by reference, with respect to FIGS. 13E-J thereof. As a result, in the deployment shown in FIG. 6A, stent-graft 120 and branching stent-grafts 410A and 410B together define a fluid flow path through the aorta and the renal arteries, and in the deployment shown in FIG. 6B, stent-graft 120 and branching stent-grafts 410A and 410B together define a fluid flow path through aortic arch 500 and brachiocephalic artery 503 and left common carotid artery 512. Typically, the branching stent-grafts are transvascularly introduced when in respective radially-compressed delivery states, and are transitioned to respective radially-expanded states.

As mentioned above, for some applications the stent-graft is shaped so as to define one or more additional lateral tubes 50. For these applications, one or more additional branching stent-grafts may be deployed into additional branching visceral arteries, such as, for the deployment shown in FIG. 6A, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) and/or the celiac artery, or, for the deployment shown in FIG. 6B, left subclavian artery 514, and sealingly coupled to the additional lateral tube(s). Typically, a main stent-graft is deployed and blood-tightly sealingly coupled to a proximal end of stent-graft 120 to extend the fluid flow path past the aneurysm, such as shown in FIG. 13J of the above-mentioned PCT Application PCT/IL2014/050973, mutatis mutandis. Alternatively, stent-graft 120 may be shaped so as to define a fenestration to allow blood flow to the SMA.

The scope of the present invention includes embodiments described in the following patents and patent applications, which are assigned to the assignee of the present application and are incorporated herein by reference. In an embodiment, techniques and apparatus described in one or more of the following patent applications are combined with techniques and apparatus described herein. In particular, the stent-grafts described herein may be used as components of the stent-graft systems described in the following patent and patent applications, and deployed as described as described in the following patent and patent applications, mutatis mutandis.

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It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been particularly shown and described hereinabove. Rather, the scope of the present invention includes both combinations and subcombinations of the various features described hereinabove, as well as variations and modifications thereof that are not in the prior art, which would occur to persons skilled in the art upon reading the foregoing description. 

1. Apparatus comprising an endovascular stent-graft, which is configured to transition from a radially-compressed delivery state to a radially-expanded state, and which comprises: a plurality of structural strut members; and a graft member, which comprises one or more substantially blood-impervious flexible sheets, and which is fixed to the structural strut members, wherein the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged so as to define, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state: a main tube, which is shaped so as to define a main lumen, and a lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a distal end and (ii) a proximal end that is joined to a lateral wall of the main tube at a junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a lateral lumen that is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c) defines a central longitudinal axis, and wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the central longitudinal axis.
 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend at least 180 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 3. The apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend at least 210 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 4. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the arcuate members alone subtends at least 60 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 5. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 6. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least two of the arcuate members are disposed at respective different axial positions along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 7. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 8. The apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at the distal end of the structural strut members that define the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 9. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the arcuate members are disposed with 3 mm of a distal end of a portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 10. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at the distal end of the portion of the graft member that defines the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 11. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when the main tube is in a radially-expanded state thereof and the lateral tube is in a compressed delivery state thereof, the arcuate members define a portion of a generally tubular outer surface of the main tube.
 12. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the apparatus further comprises a branching stent-graft, which is configured to form a blood-tight seal with the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state and the branching stent-graft is in a radially-expanded state.
 13. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a ratio of (a) an average circumference of the main tube and (b) an average circumference of the lateral tube is between 1:1 and 5:1, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 14. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a length of the lateral tube is between 10% and 30% of an average circumference of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 15. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a circumference of the lateral tube at the proximal end of the lateral tube is between 5% and 30% greater than a circumference of the lateral tube at the distal end of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 16. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is greater than 80 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 17. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 60 and 80 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 18. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein an angle between the central longitudinal axis of the lateral tube and a central longitudinal axis of the main tube is between 30 and 60 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 19. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the main tube has proximal and distal ends, and wherein a circumference of the proximal end of the main tube is 3 to 10 cm, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 20. The apparatus according to claim 19, wherein a circumference of the distal end of the main tube is 6 to 12 cm, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 21. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a length of the main tube is 4 to 15 CM.
 22. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more of the structural strut members comprise a flexible metal.
 23. The apparatus according to claim 22, wherein the metal comprises a superelastic alloy.
 24. The apparatus according to claim 23, wherein the alloy comprises Nitinol.
 25. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible sheets comprise polyethylene terephthalate.
 26. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the one or more flexible sheets comprise expanded polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE).
 27. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein the arcuate members are arranged so as to provide respective circumferential gaps between circumferentially-adjacent ones of the arcuate members, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 28. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 350 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 29. The apparatus according to claim 28, wherein the arcuate members collectively subtend no more than 340 degrees around the central longitudinal axis, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 30. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 10 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 31. The apparatus according to claim 30, wherein each of the circumferential gaps measures at least 20 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 32. The apparatus according to claim 27, wherein the arcuate members are disposed at a same axial position along the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 33. The apparatus according to claim 32, wherein respective areas of the lateral tube, which (a) circumferentially correspond with the gaps and (b) extend from the axial position of the arcuate members along at least 50% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction, are free from the structural strut members, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 34. The apparatus according to claim 33, wherein the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 60% of the distance.
 35. The apparatus according to claim 34, wherein the respective areas extend from the arcuate members along 100% of the distance.
 36. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define respective linking members for the arcuate members, which linking members link the arcuate members to the junction.
 37. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members and the linking members, in an area that (a) extends entirely around the central longitudinal axis and (b) extends from the distal end of the lateral tube along at least 50% of a distance between the distal end of the lateral tube and the junction.
 38. The apparatus according to claim 37, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the lateral tube is free from the structural strut members, except for the arcuate members, the linking members, and any of the structural strut members that surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction.
 39. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 40. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, respective points on the linking members and respective juncture points between the link members and the arcuate members define respective lines, which lines form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, and which points on the linking members are at 30% of a distance between the axial position of the arcuate members and the junction.
 41. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein an average length of the linking members equals at least 80% of a length of the lateral tube, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 42. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees.
 43. The apparatus according to claim 42, wherein the average is 90 degrees.
 44. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees.
 45. The apparatus according to claim 40, wherein the linking members form respective angles with the respective arcuate members, which angles have an average of 30 to 90 degrees, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 46. The apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the average is 85 to 90 degrees.
 47. The apparatus according to claim 46, wherein the average is 90 degrees.
 48. The apparatus according to claim 45, wherein the average is 30 to 60 degrees.
 49. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein each of the linking members is connected to its respective arcuate member at a juncture point at a location along the arcuate member that is within a number of degrees of a circumferential center of the arcuate member around the central circumferential axis, which number of degrees is equal to 40% of a total number of degrees of the arcuate member.
 50. The apparatus according to claim 49, wherein the location along the arcuate member is at the circumferential center of the arcuate member.
 51. The apparatus according to claim 36, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, one or more of the structural strut members (a) completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction and (b) are connected to the linking members.
 52. The apparatus according to any one of claims 1-26, wherein one or more of the structural strut members completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 53. The apparatus according to claim 52, wherein the structural strut members that define the main tube are shaped so as a plurality of circumferential stent springs, each of which is shaped so as to define a plurality of stent cells, and wherein one of the stent cells of one of the circumferential stent springs is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 54. The apparatus according to claim 53, wherein the stent cells of the one of the circumferential stent springs are diamond-shaped, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 55. The apparatus according to claim 54, wherein the diamond-shaped stent cells have respective, different dimensions, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 56. The apparatus according to claim 55, wherein a largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is at least 100% greater in surface area than a smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells, which largest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells is the one of the stent cells that is defined by the one or more of the structural strut members that completely surround the proximal end of the lateral tube at the junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 57. The apparatus according to claim 56, wherein the lateral tube is a first lateral tube, the distal and proximal ends are first distal and proximal ends, the junction is a first junction, the lateral lumen is a first lateral lumen, the central longitudinal axis is a first central longitudinal axis, and the arcuate members are first arcuate members, wherein the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged so as to define, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, a second lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a second distal end and (ii) a second proximal end that is joined to the lateral wall of the main tube at a second junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a second lateral lumen that is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c) defines a second central longitudinal axis, wherein, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state, the structural strut members that define the second lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous second arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the second central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the second central longitudinal axis, and wherein the smallest one of the diamond-shaped stent cells completely surrounds the second proximal end of the second lateral tube at the second junction, when the stent-graft is in the radially-expanded state.
 58. A method for treating a subject, comprising: transvascularly introducing an endovascular stent-graft into a blood vessel of the subject while the stent-graft is in a radially-compressed delivery state, which stent-graft comprises (a) a plurality of structural strut members, and (b) a graft member, which comprises one or more substantially blood-impervious flexible sheets, and which is fixed to the structural strut members; and transitioning the stent-graft to a radially-expanded state, in which: the structural strut members and the graft member are arranged so as to define (x) a main tube, which is shaped so as to define a main lumen, and (y) a lateral tube, which (a) has (i) a distal end and (ii) a proximal end that is joined to a lateral wall of the main tube at a junction, (b) is shaped so as to define a lateral lumen that is in fluid communication with the main lumen, and (c) defines a central longitudinal axis, and the structural strut members that define the lateral tube are shaped so as to define two to four non-contiguous arcuate members, which (a) are centered around the central longitudinal axis, and (b) collectively subtend at least 150 degrees around the central longitudinal axis. 